Driving Up Mount Washington with the Pack

August 16, 2019 by janet

For several years now I have had a dream of driving up the Mount Washington auto road in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The peak is 6,288 feet up in the clouds and the road up to it offers no creature comforts such as guardrails or wide lanes; the top portion above the tree line is considered an alpine zone with flora unique to the area, and is paved only with gravel.

Scaling Mount Washington, whether driving, hiking, or riding a bike, is a bucket list item for many. The view from on high is epic, with towns laid out below like holiday dioramas, and nearby mountains beckoning across the valley.

My dream also featured snow in summer. The temperature at the summit is often twenty to thirty degrees cooler than at the base. How delighted would my pack of snow dogs be, with snow to frolic in, on a beautiful summer’s day?! I imagined the joy of lobbing snow balls at them under a sunny summer sky.

Due to heavy snow the previous winter, the road opened later than usual this May. We checked the weather at the summit one evening a few days before we drove up, and the temperature was a brisk two degrees with the wind chill, and there were winds in excess of sixty miles per hour. Would our drive actually happen? When the weather is bad the road simply does not open due to safety concerns. Mount Washington is known around the world for record breaking extremes of wind and low temperatures.

A warning sign at the entrance to the Mount Washington Auto Road

We arrived at the base of the mountain on May 25th, the first day the auto road was open for the 2019 season. The weather was on our side: the sun shone brightly and the temperature was in the low seventies, with a mild breeze. The pack were loaded into the back of our Jeep Liberty. We were given some guidelines for the drive and an informational cd to listen to en route. We were told that if our car overheated, there were several spots to pull over.

The beginning of the drive was easy. The pleasant tree-lined road wound up and up and up. As we rose higher, the trees fell away from the edge of the road and we looked out on sheer drops. I have never been afraid of heights but this was unnerving!

At about 4,000 feet a light popped up on our car’s dash board that we had never seen before. It seems that the transmission oil was too hot. Hearts pounding, we pulled over to let it cool off. After 180,000 miles and ten years in, our Jeep was putting in a heroic effort. This was not the place to break down! The view from our stopping point was stunning – trees spread out below in vast numbers, towns far away, clouds perched in the sky almost close enough to touch.

As you rise above the tree line, the road narrows and you drive up towards the clouds

After a brief rest for the car, we drove on in a lower gear, the road becoming increasingly more narrow and the drops more and more terrifying. It was difficult for two cars to pass each other and it was done in a slow and careful dance, especially at any of the turns.

The view from our parking spot at the summit

When we arrived at the actual summit and parked our car, you truly felt on top of the world. The view from every angle was jaw dropping. As I stepped out of the car I realized my hands were trembling with an unfamiliar combination of excitement and fear.

As we unloaded Fiona, Lobo and Secret from the car, we felt a chilly breeze across our faces. The temperature had dropped to the mid forties. I gripped the leashes tightly. The dogs were exhilarated, galvanized by the cooler weather that huskies crave. It didn’t take them long to find every patch of snow on the summit. Lobo rolled on his back in the snow in sheer, unbridled joy.

The unusual delight of playing in snow in summer

We love to travel with our dogs and go out of our way to find dog friendly attractions for our fuzzy family. Mount Washington stands out as the most memorable so far. We weren’t alone – we met lots of dogs on the top of the mountain along with their people, including another husky or two. A dog’s innate sense of adventure welcomes novel events such as this.

We can’t wait to go back again in the fall, with all the varied colors of an autumnal forest laid out below. There may be a bit more snow at the summit!

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome: Lindbergh’s Spirit of St Louis Inspires the Pack

September 11, 2017 by janet

The pack visited the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in the historic Hudson River Valley this past week. Here we are posing in front of a replica of Charles Lindbergh’s famous plane. Don’t you just love dog friendly attractions when you are traveling?! This one is our absolute favorite.

We Pay Homage to the Spirit of St Louis

In his plane, The Spirit of St Louis, the pioneering aviator Charles Lindbergh crossed the wide Atlantic Ocean on May 21, 1927. Flight was brand new to humanity back then and no one had made this long of a journey, fraught with danger, across an entire uninterrupted expanse of ocean. During thirty-three long hours alone, navigating solely by compass – note that there is no windshield to see where you are going – he successfully flew from New York to Paris. What an amazing achievement!

Lindbergh: A Kindred Spirit

The pack loves an adventurer and Charles Lindbergh was a true kindred spirit. His journey was not only ground breaking; his greatest achievement was that of inspiration. With his courage and persistence in his dream of trans Atlantic flight, Lindbergh lit the lamp to clearly show the way. What it revealed was a glorious vision, of the world of routine and easy air plane travel around the globe, that we enjoy so casually today.

About the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome

In addition to the many vintage planes on display at the Aerodrome, there are air shows each weekend where you can see the history of flight take to the skies, and tours of the Hudson River Valley in an open air biplane. Note to those, like us, traveling with dogs – the folks selling tickets for the bi plane rides kindly offered to mind the dogs for us if we wanted to go for a tour! How very kind of them.

This Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a must see. Visit their web site for details: http://oldrhinebeck.org/

The Pack Goes Hunting for a Waterfall

June 23, 2017 by janet

On our recent trip to New Hampshire, we decided that this time we would hike for real. Not that we have gone crawling or limping along in the past, but we haven’t exactly challenged ourselves or the dogs.

The White Mountains of New Hampshire presented us with a perfect challenge. As we left the Lake District where we were staying and headed north along Route 93, the terrain became decidedly hilly and downright mountainous. A soothing landscape of fog and clouds masked the tops of the mountains and a light rain began to fall. Stores and houses and gas stations were scarce. Rocks and trees and picturesque streams predominated the scenery. It was gloriously primal and devastatingly beautiful.

We were in quest of the Nancy Cascades on the Nancy Pond Trail. If we climbed high enough on the mountain we would enjoy hiking in a rare old growth forest, well beyond the pale of loggers and builders.

Driving along on the highway you could easily miss the tiny parking area and brown park system sign for the trail. I happened to catch it as we drove past. After driving for a while we found a place to turn around and go back. There are understandably no u-turns on the mountain highway, but we managed to find a safe area to reconnoitre and get back to the trail entrance.

As you enter the trail there are warnings about snakes, bears and other such wildlife and a host of emergency numbers to call should you need them. For newbie hikers it was a bit daunting but with our three dogs in tow and visions of a waterfall and massive, ancient trees in our heads, we staunchly persevered. Our cell phones didn’t have much if any signal here anyway! This place promised to look like Middle Earth.

We’d brought along three large bottles of water and some granola to sustain us. Setting off we soon discovered that Lobo is very surefooted. He always found the easiest path! Who knew our boy was such a trail blazer?! He was the dog to follow when the going got tough.

At the first stream crossing we stopped short. It was a burgeoning stream dotted with rocks large and small. Some areas of the water were a bit deep. Would the dogs walk on the rocks? Would they swim in the stream? Would they pull us in for an unexpected baptism in cold mountain water?

We managed to cross the water safely after some trial and error. Secret balked and almost had to be carried at first. It’s typical of her, shall we say “difficult”, personality! But eventually the dogs came to love crossing the streams, leaping on the large rocks and dunking their paws in the cold, swiftly moving water. Lobo plonked right through and over like a trooper. Fiona often walked over completely on the rocks as she’s a true acrobat at heart, with a sense of balance a gymnast would envy. Secret learned to trust and to follow the other two dogs across.

The stream crossings became progressively wider and deeper. The trail grew steeper and steeper. The sound of rushing water was all around us. It appeared that the waterfall was in truth the whole mountain. Water flowed downstream in great cascades. It was a feast for the eyes, the ears and the soul.

The true nature of a Siberian husky comes out on such a steep trail. They love to pull and gladly helped us up the mountain. We were grateful for their power and drive and sense of adventure. It kept us going at times when, had we two humans been alone, we might have said “that was fun” and turned around to go back to the car. I’ve always been fascinated by small group dynamics and the same principles seem to apply to dogs and people as well. Our dynamic trio acted as a team, the true heart and driving force of this hiking party.

Our journey came to an abrupt halt as we reached a stream crossing that was simply too large to navigate past. We looked longingly over to the other side and the trail beyond. We had been hiking for over two hours which meant another two hours going back down. It was time to turn around. It had begun to rain again and the steep path downwards would be slippery. Our supply of fresh water and granola was almost gone.

We didn’t make it to the old growth forest this time. Yet the forest we hiked through was untouched and unpeopled. We were gloriously alone in the woods for over four hours, just us and the pups.

I can’t imagine ever being that alone in the woods in New Jersey! We love our state but it is densely populated and the parks are well traveled by hikers and mountain bikers and horses. It is rare to ever feel alone, to be beyond the sound of cars and people and the noise of civilization.

This hike whetted our appetite for adventure. I realized we had never truly hiked before this point. There’s a sense of wonder and independence about it, being alone in the woods, with your trusty dogs at your side. Far from a convenience store. Far from computers and cell phones – completely unplugged. Now we have tasted the untouched beauty of nature and are hungry for more! Stay tuned for further trail adventures.

Catskill Mountain Adventures: Dog Friendly Venues and Breathtaking Scenery

September 16, 2016 by janet

THE CATSKILLS: NATURE’S PLAYGROUND
We wanted a camping destination relatively close to our central New Jersey home. The Catskill Mountains are just a little over two hours drive, only an hour and a half north west of Manhattan. They are known by locals as the “blue mountains” due to their uniquely beautiful coloring. There’s dense forest as far as the eye can see. This sylvan paradise was perfect for a three day weekend holiday with the pack.

We also desired a vacation spot that offered dog friendly activities. When we took the leap and added the third husky to our pack last year, our lovable rescue Lobo, we realized that travel might become more difficult with that many large dogs in the family. This is how we discovered the beauties of a travel trailer, the relatively luxurious camping that comes with it, and the ease with which one can travel with canines. The Catskill region is made for camping with dogs, with dog friendly campgrounds located in every possible area you might want to visit, and outdoor activities in abundance to keep both dogs and people happy.

PLACES TO VISIT IN THE CATSKILLS

Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
The aerodrome has been in operation since 1959, when an old farm was purchased by pilot and vintage airplane enthusiast Cole Palen to house his vintage plane collection. He formed the aerodrome museum foundation in 1993 so the preservation, education and entertainment could continue past his lifetime. His cheery refrain when facing a complicated restoration job on an old plane was “No problem. It’ll fly.”

It was with amazement that we watched lovingly restored planes from 1909 through the 1930’s, take flight before us. It is a feast for the eyes and a tribute to Cole Palen’s dream and his legacy. The engines roar to life and some planes take to the clear blue skies and others (the very old ones) would simply float gracefully across the demonstration field. It is a true living history of flight.

Dogs are warmly welcomed at the aerodrome. We were told by several people where to find the oversized green water bowl and water faucet to keep the pups hydrated. And we were cautioned that some few dogs might find the show too loud – not so much the planes – there are some simulated shoot outs as part of the theatrical program. Our pups were not phased by the show at all. Lobo did get bored and begin to bark – that is so very Lobo – so we took a walk to get some popcorn together and he was fine after that.

The aerodrome is open all day with active planes arranged around the fields and hangars housing other planes in various states of restoration. Seating for the 2 pm weekend show is on rustic wooden benches arranged beside the field. There are several consignment stands with everything from salmon burgers to ice cream to popcorn. The popcorn came in handy when we ran out of dog treats!

The fee for the museum and afternoon air show is $25 per person. One can also purchase tickets for a flight in a vintage plane for $75 per person. People queue first thing in the morning for the flight tickets and they do sell out. The experience is truly unique, viewing the Catskill mountains and forest of the Hudson valley below, from the vantage point of an open cock pit in a vintage plane. Old cars and motorcycles are also part of the show and audience members are invited to dress up in vintage clothing and take a ride.

The aerodrome is a true treat to visit and a bona fide gem of the Catskills.

A replica of The Spirit of St Louis ( Charles Lindbergh’s famous plane)

Sam’s Point Preserve
Sam’s Point area is part of the larger Minnewaska State Park Preserve. The drive up to the park entrance winds up the mountain, past some steep cliffs and gorgeous views. A few miles from the parking lot, along a scenic stopping point, is a hot dog stand. That vendor has a challenging location but the best view of any food vendor I have ever seen!

The parking lot was quite full but we managed to find a spot. There is a parking fee of $10 per car, which is paid in a convenient parking kiosk. The park is a “carry in, carry out” location so there are no garbage cans and you must bring any trash home with you. The park is pristinely kept so it’s obvious everyone respects this rule, which is common in many state parks.

The trail leading to Sam’s Point from the parking lot can be taken from the left or the right path. We chose to take the longer path to the left. The trail is as wide as a road, sometimes dirt, sometimes gravel and sometimes paved. It is well shaded and scenic, with mostly a gradual climb, although there are some more challenging inclines. Half way around there is a pretty lake to visit, Lake Maratanza. The pups dipped their feet in to cool off and enjoy the view.

There are ice caves as well as a water fall, although we didn’t visit those. The waterfall area was closed and the ice caves we decided to save for a future visit, as there was no ice this late in the summer.

Sam’s Point has a lot to offer. The loop we walked kept us busy for hours at a leisurely pace, enjoying the weather and the scenery, and allowed us to visit the lake and the Sam’s Point overlook. There was an abundance of hawks along the cliffs, soaring on the breeze with outstretched wings. This untouched mountain area looks like a hawk’s paradise! There are eagles as well although we didn’t see any this time.

(A word of caution, there are rattlesnakes in this area. It’s nature after all, with acres and acres of untrammeled wilderness. We didn’t see a single one for which I am very grateful.)

Lobo splays out – I made it to the top, mom!

Skyway Camping Resort
Skyway is pet friendly, people friendly, and well run. The bath houses and restrooms are sparkling, obviously cleaned several times a day. The pool and hot tub are set well apart from the camping spots and overlook the surrounding forest and mountains. The entire place is scenic, spotless, and well-laid out. The staff could not be nicer if they tried.

We arrived late, after dark, and were escorted directly to our spot by a friendly young staff member in a golf cart. Our spot was perfectly level, offered trees for shade, some bushes for privacy, a gravel surface for our patio, and a picnic table and fire pit.

There was some loud partying going on around us but it all ended nicely once quiet hours began at 11 PM. After that it was quiet, peaceful, nothing but crickets, and we slept long and well in our little haven.

Skyway is a dog friendly camp ground. There were dogs everywhere, much to our pups’ delight. Dogs love dog watching just like people love people watching. It’s a constant source of amusement. There is an enclosed dog park for off leash fun for your canines; we were so busy sight seeing that we didn’t avail ourselves of this thoughtful amenity.

After days full of adventure, at the Aerodrome and Sam’s Point and simply driving the beautiful forested roads of the area, we were happy to return each evening to our relaxing camping spot in Skyway.

All in all, a very happy excursion to the Catskills!

THE COLEMAN LANTERN EDITION TRAVEL TRAILER (192RDS)
Our Coleman Lantern Edition travel trailer offers a queen size bed and a couch and dinette, both of which convert into beds. It’s on the small size for a travel trailer at 19 feet but it is just perfect for our family. Two people and two dogs can sleep on the bed (cramped but we’re used to it!) and one dog takes the floor or the couch.

With a small kitchenette and bathroom with shower, we are well kitted out to camp at length should we choose. The bathroom even has a small tub should one dare to wash a dog…! The couch is a fake leather which is ideal for those like us with shedding dogs – no need to vacuum – just brush it off and sweep it up!

This small trailer has the advantage of being tall which makes it seem even roomier. As my husband is 6 foot 3″, this is a definite plus.

Having tent camped last year with the pack, this travel trailer is like a luxury hotel to us. We love it so much we sometimes sleep in it in our driveway on weekends when we are not camping!

The Power of Routine for Dogs: The Pack Returns to New Hampshire

June 21, 2016 by janet

Our latest foray into New Hampshire was blessed with cool mornings and evenings and warm, sun-kissed days. The longest day of the year was nigh and that was lovely too – we had glorious daylight until almost nine o’clock.

Fiona, Secret and Lobo are great travelers. We create routine for them within the boundaries of travel and this is a key to happy, travel savvy dogs. How do we do this? The basic routines involve, quite simply, food and potty breaks.

THE MORNING ROUTINE
When we wake in the morning, whether it’s 6 am or 9 am, we walk all three dogs so they can pee and poop if they need to do so. They know this, expect this, and rely on this, as well they should. This typically means wandering around camp bleary eyed in our pajamas, with a roll of blue poop bags sticking out of my pocket, but camping is casual and that is fine for us. No matter how sleepy we are, we are watchful for critters (chipmunks, snakes, bears, frogs, other dogs, moose). Rob takes two dogs and I take one.

Soon after we return to the camper, the tea kettle gets placed on the stove for me, and I begin preparing their bowls of food in our handy dandy bento bowls. At home, each dog is given his or her food bowl in a specific order and in a specific spot. This is how I create order and boundaries for meal times. I do the same in the camper – Fiona first by the dinette, Lobo next by the door, and Secret, third, is fed in the middle near the fridge. The dogs take a fish oil vitamin every morning in cream cheese and this is given before or after their breakfast. Lobo, ever vigilant for breaks in beloved routines, barks at me if I forget!

THE EVENING ROUTINE
The same routine is followed in the evening. Dinner is served somewhere between 5 pm and 7 pm. I like to vary the time – same goes with breakfast – so they learn to be a little flexible. Before we go to bed, they get a long walk around the campground to pee and poop. Then we settle in for the night of watching a movie, sitting by the campfire gazing at the flames, or falling blissfuly asleep to the tune of crickets and bullfrogs.

CAMPING WITH DOGS
You will find dogs everywhere in campgrounds. On leash, off leash, in vehicles, in golf carts, in tents, in pop up campers, in travel trailers. It really is a dog lover’s paradise. This is why camping made such sense to us; it makes traveling with dogs easy. We’ve done the hotel stays with one dog or two and that was great, albeit expensive. Now with three canines in our family, camping is the answer. Of course camping also means a lot of time spent outdoors, which we, as a family, love and appreciate.

LEAVE THE CAMPER BEHIND?! HECK YEAH
We discovered a great travel trailer “trick” on this last trip. The campground we were staying at has a policy, based on availability of course, where you can leave your trailer in place for two consecutive weekends, as long as you book and pay for the two weekends at once. To keep the electric on (and the items in your fridge and freezer cold) you pay a very minimal fee.

So the camper waited for us patiently all week long and we didn’t have to drive it back and forth from New Jersey twice. It was like having a familiar vacation home waiting for us in another state. I guess this is why some folks have “seasonal” spots at campgrounds and just drop their trailer in place for the entire summer season.

The savings in gas and tolls alone almost paid for our second weekend. When we drive with the trailer, we must stop at least every two hours to gas up. When we drive the car alone, it is every four or five hours.

The difference in ease of travel (not having an extra 22 feet of vehicle in tow to maneuver) and savings (cut the gas expense in half) with not having something in tow is huge. Staying two weekends in a place satisfies our desire to get to know a place better by staying longer. This pack is ready to travel!